Arguably the most established wine region in the United States, Napa continues to set the standard as the de facto wine escape for discerning Californians. Fall is among the best times of the year to visit, and 2026 brings a slate of buzzy new eateries, outdoor activities, and revamped retreats perfect with prime views of the area’s legendary rolling hills. If you’re planning a trip, here’s what needs to be on your radar.
Where To Sip
For an ideal intro to Napa’s classic varietals, head to Bella Union Winery in St. Helena for sips of their classic Napa Valley and Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignons. Along with their excellent mix of flagship reds and blends, the winery itself is a designer’s dream, anchored by wood archways, plush velvet banquettes, brass-framed mirrors, and a glass-enclosed tasting room, appropriately named the Jewel Box.
Hersly Wines in downtown Napa is the ultimate boutique wine tasting experience: Owned by Adam and Stacy Hersly, all wines here are produced from the Lazare Family Vineyard in Napa’s Oak Knoll District. Their award-winning Merlot and Pinot Noir (sourced from the Russian River Valley) are not to be missed, and rosé lovers can enjoy a glass of their Mae Rosé, named after their beloved resident winery dog. Private wine tastings can be scheduled via the Hersley Wines website.
Where To Stay
Beyond its tasting rooms, Napa offers plenty of scenic parks, farms, and outdoor activities that make it a great family destination. For travelers toting along little ones, Silverado Resort is a great all-ages accommodation option, offering kids’ golf and tennis camps, on-site bike rentals, and larger suites with full kitchens, living rooms, and private patios. The adults can also wind down with fitness classes at the on-site Spa & Longevity Center, as well as at its six on-site dining outlets, including the recently redesigned Matchplay Bar + Kitchen.
For an adults-only option that’s both secluded and close to the action, it’s hard to beat Sttupa Estate Napa Valley. With just five suites, the five-suite boutique luxury property changed ownership in 2024 and received a slew of new upgrades, including curated wellness offerings and culinary menus from top Napa Valley chefs. Accessible only to registered guests via a gated road, the property arguably offers the most breathtaking views in the region via its open-air patio: a glass of wine during the sunset is a must.
Where To Dine
Napa is no stranger to fine dining, and among its crown jewels is Chef Alex Espinoza’s Bottega Napa Valley. Always humming with activity (and adoring diners clamoring for a table), a reservation here offers an essential taste of what the region has to offer. Espinoza constructs Italian classics using local California ingredients; the peach and burrata with balsamic “caviar” is a perfect opening act, while the wagyu cacio e pepe – complete with tableside preparation – is a true showstopper. The wine program, led by Stephen Arnold, offers exquisite local and global pairings that set the scene as each dish is delivered to the table.
